Mounting structure of optical module and optical mounting board

Abstract

The mounting structure (10) of the optical module of the present invention sequentially includes: a plurality of optical modules (14); a first optical waveguide assembly (13); a first optical connector (11); a second optical connector (12); and a second optical waveguide assembly (13_2), wherein the first optical connector (11) includes a first magnetic assembly (114) and accommodates the first optical waveguide assembly (13) optically connected to the optical module (14), the second optical connector (12) includes a second magnetic assembly (124) and accommodates the second optical waveguide assembly (13_2), and at least one of the first magnetic assembly (114) or the second magnetic assembly (124) includes a hard magnetic material, and an attractive force is applied between the first magnetic assembly (114) and the second magnetic assembly (124) in a direction that reduces the gap between the facing end faces of the first magnetic assembly (114) and the second magnetic assembly (124). Therefore, the present invention can provide a mounting structure for optical modules capable of high-density mounting.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a mounting structure of an optical module mounted on an optical mounting board and an optical mounting board. BACKGROUND

[0002] With explosive growth of Internet traffic due to video services, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud services, and the like, recently, there is a need to significantly increase the communication capacity within and between data centers. In order to increase the communication capacity, optical interconnection technologies using optical transmission technologies used in optical communications and the like are increasingly introduced in place of conventional short distance communication methods using electrical signals (Non-Patent Literature 1).

[0003] In addition, in order to cope with the increase in signal speed in high-performance computing applications, the introduction of optical interconnections is also advancing. Among the installation forms of optical interconnections, it is common to use methods such as a small form-factor pluggable (SFP) pluggable optical transceiver, but in order to meet the need for further expansion of transmission capacity, recently, an installation form of an optical module called a co-packaged optical (CPO) has been proposed, in which a large number of optical modules are directly mounted near electronic components on a board (substrate).

[0004] In this installation form, in order to connect optical modules within or between boards, it is conceivable to connect the optical modules to a plurality of optical fibers, polymer waveguides, and the like, and connect the optical fibers / optical waveguides as transmission lines with optical connectors interposed therebetween. For example, as an optical transceiver module suitable for CPO, a multi-channel single-mode optical integrated circuit composed of a silicon photon, a compound semiconductor, or the like is known, and it is conceivable that the optical module and a plurality of optical fibers are optically connected, and the plurality of optical fibers are provided at one end with an MT connector, an MPO connector, or the like as a multi-core optical connector to connect the optical connectors to each other. In such applications, it is necessary to mount a plurality of optical modules in a board at a higher density, and therefore a space-saving optical mounting form including optical connectors is required.

[0005] As a multi-core optical connector used in the CPO form, an MT connector or an MPO connector based on the MT connector is used, as described in Non-Patent Literature 2. In either case, a resin-molded MT ferrule having a plurality of micro-holes for accommodating optical fibers and two guide holes for accommodating / inserting guide pins is used. A plurality of optical fibers are spliced and fixed to the same ferrule, and the guide pins provided in one ferrule are fitted to the other ferrule, thereby connecting the optical fibers to each other. At this time, high-precision positioning of the plurality of optical fibers is collectively achieved by high-hole-diameter precision and high-hole-positioning precision of the optical fiber accommodation holes and the guide pin holes.

[0006] LIST OF CITATIONS

[0007] Non-Patent Literature

[0008] Non-Patent Literature 1: “Basic Technologies toward the All-Photonics Network”, Tetsuomi Sogawa, NTT Technical Review, vol. 18, No. 3, 2020.

[0009] Non-Patent Literature 2: “History of Fiber Optic Physical Contact Connector for Low Insertion and High Return Losses”, Ryo Nagase, Yoshiteru Abe, Mitsuru Kihara, Proc. IEEE HISTory of ELectrotechnolgy CONference (HISTELCON), 2017. SUMMARY

[0010] Technical Problem

[0011] However, since the multi-core optical connector of the present structure uses a spring assembly such as a clip or a coil spring and a mechanical fastening structure for constantly applying the pressing force of the spring assembly to the connection end face, there are limitations in achieving miniaturization while maintaining connection operability to contribute to CPO applications.

[0012] For example, an MT connector using a clip has a small configuration including an MT ferrule and a clip, but the width of the clip assembly is generally larger than the width of the MT ferrule, which hinders miniaturization.

[0013] In addition, at the time of actual connection of the MT connector, a work space for inserting the clip assembly to clip the two ferrules is required, a work space equal to or greater than the width of the connector is required at the time of insertion and removal, and the use of a connection jig or the like is required depending on the demand. Therefore, in the case of arranging a plurality of optical modules and a plurality of MT connectors in an array as in the form of CPO, the clip width and the space width for clip insertion and removal are required, so a plurality of MT connectors cannot be densely arranged, and rough arrangement needs to be considered with space. Note that the same applies to a spring assembly such as a claw having a similar effect to a clip.

[0014] In addition, in the MPO connector in which a coil spring is used instead of a clip, manual push-pull connection can be achieved by a large number of housing components around the coil spring, and a stable pressing force can be applied. On the other hand, in order to maintain the pressed state against the reaction force of the coil spring, it is necessary to use a plurality of housing components and an additional adapter component, and the sizes of these components are large, so the size of the MPO connector becomes very large.

[0015] As described above, in the CPO form, in the case where a plurality of optical modules and a plurality of multi-core optical connectors are arranged on a substrate, the multi-core optical connectors themselves and the space for connecting the multi-core optical connectors occupy the space on the substrate, and thus there has been a problem in densely mounting the optical modules on a board (substrate).

[0016] Note that a manner in which a polymer waveguide including an optical connector at a terminal end is used instead of a plurality of optical fibers and is mounted with an optical module has also been studied. In this case, a PMT connector (a polymer waveguide connected to an MT connector) housed in an MT ferrule is used as an optical connector of the polymer waveguide, and its connection mechanism is similar to that of the MT connector. Therefore, even in the case where a waveguide is used as a transmission line, there is also a problem in densely mounting the optical modules on a board (substrate) due to the space of the connector connection portion.

[0017] The present application has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present application is to provide a high-density mounting form of an optical module by saving the space required to connect optical connectors in a mounting form in which a plurality of optical modules are arranged on a board in a state of being optically connected to a plurality of short optical fibers provided with optical connectors or short optical waveguides provided with optical connectors.

[0018] Solution to the problem

[0019] In order to solve the problems as described above, the mounting structure of the optical module according to the present application sequentially includes a plurality of optical modules, a first optical waveguide assembly, a first optical connector, a second optical connector, and a second optical waveguide assembly, wherein the first optical connector includes a first magnetic assembly and houses the first optical waveguide assembly, the first optical waveguide assembly is optically connected to the optical module, the second optical connector includes a second magnetic assembly and houses the second optical waveguide assembly, at least one of the first magnetic assembly or the second magnetic assembly includes a hard magnetic material, and an attractive force is applied in a direction in which a gap between facing end surfaces of the first magnetic assembly and the second magnetic assembly decreases by allowing a magnetic force to act between the first magnetic assembly and the second magnetic assembly.

[0020] Advantages of the present application

[0021] According to the present application, it is possible to provide a mounting structure of an optical module capable of high-density mounting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an optical mounting board including a mounting structure of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present application (before connection).

[0023] FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application (after connection).

[0024] FIG. 2A is a perspective view showing an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application (before connection).

[0025] FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application (after connection).

[0026] FIG. 3A is a top sectional view showing an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application (before connection).

[0027] FIG. 3B is a top sectional view showing an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application (after connection).

[0028] FIG. 4A is a perspective view showing a mounting structure of an optical module according to a modification of the first embodiment of the present application (after connection).

[0029] FIG. 4B is a perspective view showing an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the modification of the first embodiment of the present application (after connection).

[0030] FIG. 5A is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0031] FIG. 5B is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0032] FIG. 5C is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0033] FIG. 5Dis a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0034] FIG. 5E is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0035] FIG. 5F is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0036] FIG. 5G is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0037] FIG. 5H is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0038] FIG. 5I is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0039] FIG. 5J is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0040] FIG. 5K is a front sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0041] FIG. 6 is a perspective schematic view showing an example of a mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0042] FIG. 7A is a side sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0043] FIG. 7B is a side sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0044] FIG. 7C is a side sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in a mounting structure of an optical module according to the first embodiment of the present application.

[0045] FIG. 7DThis is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 7E This is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 7F This is a side cross-sectional view showing an example of an optical connector in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 8A This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of an optical connector in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 8B This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of an optical connector in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 9 This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of an optical connector in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 10A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 10B This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 11A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 11B This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 12A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 12B This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 13A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 13B This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 14A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIG. 14B This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 15A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 15B This is a side cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 16A This is a side cross-sectional view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 16B This is a front cross-sectional view showing an example of a ferrule in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a modified embodiment of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] FIG. 16C This is a front cross-sectional view showing an example of a ferrule in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a modified embodiment of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 17A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 17B This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 18 This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 19A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 19BThis is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 20A This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] FIG. 20B This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] FIG. 21A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] FIG. 21B This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] FIG. 22A This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting structure (before connection) of an optical module according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] FIG. 22B This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] FIG. 23A This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting structure of an optical module according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] FIG. 23B This is a perspective schematic diagram showing an example of the mounting structure of an optical module according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] FIG. 24A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] FIG. 24B This is a perspective view showing the optical connector (after connection) in the mounting structure of the optical module according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] FIG. 25A This is a perspective view showing the mounting structure (after connection) of an optical module according to a modified example of the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] FIG. 25B This is a perspective view showing the optical connector (after connection) in the mounting structure of an optical module according to a modified example of the tenth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0083] <First Embodiment>

[0084] Reference FIGS. 1A-9 The mounting structure of the optical module according to a first embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0085] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0086] like FIG. 1A As shown, the mounting structure of the optical module according to this embodiment (hereinafter referred to as the "mounting structure") is used to mount the optical module on the optical mounting plate 1.

[0087] The optical mounting plate 1 includes a mounting structure 10, a substrate 2, and an integrated circuit 3 according to this embodiment.

[0088] In the optical mounting plate 1, the integrated circuit 3 is mounted near the center of the substrate 2, and a plurality of optical modules 14 are mounted on the same substrate 2 around the integrated circuit 3.

[0089] Before connecting the first optical connector 11 and the second optical connector 12, as FIG. 1A As shown, the optical mounting plate 1 includes an optical module 14 in the mounting structure 10, a first optical fiber 13 as a first optical waveguide component, and a first optical connector 11.

[0090] The second optical fiber 13_2, which serves as the second optical waveguide component, is connected to the second optical connector 12, which is connected to the first optical connector 11, such as... FIG. 1B As shown. Note that in FIG. 1B Only the middle part is shown FIG. 1A The image shows one side and both sides, while omitting the other sides. The same applies to the following figures.

[0091] As described above, the mounting structure 10 according to this embodiment includes an optical module 14, a first optical fiber 13, a first optical connector 11, a second optical connector 12, and a second optical fiber 13_2. Furthermore, in the following text, the direction of the optical fiber housed in the optical connector according to the invention is referred to as the "longitudinal direction of the optical fiber".

[0092] Here, as FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B As shown, the first optical fiber 13 and the second optical fiber 13_2 can be multiple optical fibers (hereinafter also referred to as "fiber ensemble") or can be optical waveguides. Here, examples of optical fibers and fiber ensembles as optical waveguide assemblies are shown. Examples of optical waveguide assemblies include optical waveguides and optical elements.

[0093] First, refer to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B The various basic components of the present invention are described in detail.

[0094] Integrated circuit 3 is, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) switch, and is used appropriately for applications that employ optical interconnection and computing (e.g., various processors (collectively referred to as xPUs), such as central processing units (CPUs) and graphics processing units (GPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs) or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)).

[0095] Substrate 2 is, for example, an electrical substrate including high-frequency electrical wiring, such as a known printed circuit board, build-up (BU) substrate, or ceramic substrate. Although not shown, it integrates various electronic components such as capacitors, coils, resistors, electrical connectors, and electrical contacts. When using a BU substrate, the BU substrate can be mounted separately on a second mother substrate such as a printed circuit board.

[0096] The optical module 14 includes a collection of various optical elements constituting the optical transceiver and various electrical elements used for photoelectric conversion. Optical elements include, for example, optical paths, optical light-emitting elements, optical light-receiving elements, optical modulation elements, and optical functional elements.

[0097] The optical light-emitting elements are known distributed feedback (DFB) laser arrays, distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) laser arrays, or vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) arrays, and the optical light-receiving elements are photodetector (PD) arrays, etc.

[0098] Optical modulation elements include, for example, elements modulated directly on an optical light-emitting element, elements obtained by an integrated electroabsorption (EA) modulator, or any element in an external modulation element that includes a Mach-Zehnder interferometer circuit or a ring modulator circuit.

[0099] Examples of optical functional components include beam splitters, wavelength multiplexers / demultiplexers, optical switches, polarization control elements, optical filters, etc. Any of these can be used as an optical element, and an optical transceiver is composed of a combination of various components and Si waveguides, etc., which form the basis of the optical path.

[0100] Circuits that integrate various types of optical light-emitting elements, optical light-receiving elements, optical modulation elements, and optical functional elements monolithically or hybridally onto a Si waveguide are also called optical sub-integrated circuits (PICs). A Si waveguide is an optical path that includes a cladding portion, which consists of fine Si wires forming a core on a BOX layer of a known SOI substrate, surrounded by SiO2 and SiO2. x It is composed of SiN, SiON, etc.

[0101] In addition to Si waveguides, optical paths made of compound semiconductors such as InP can also be used as optical paths. Furthermore, glass-based waveguides such as quartz-based planar optical waveguides, polymer waveguides, ferroelectric waveguides such as LN, and PICs based on these can also be used. By arraying optical transceivers with multiple channels, the transmission capacity can be further increased.

[0102] Near the optical transceiver, electrical components for driving and controlling various optical elements are arranged and electrically connected to the optical transceiver. These electrical components include, for example, drive circuits for driving LDs or external modulators, or transimpedance amplifier circuits for amplifying the electrical input to a PD. Additionally, circuits such as power supply circuits, retimer circuits, and clock circuits may be added.

[0103] The electrical connection between the optical transceiver and the electrical components can be any known electrical connection technology, such as wire bonding, flip chip bonding, or electrical wiring via another package substrate.

[0104] In addition, the optical element or PIC includes an optical input / output unit for inputting light from the outside and outputting light to the outside in correspondence with multiple channels of the optical transceiver, and can input light from the outside and output light to the outside by optically connecting the optical input / output unit to multiple optical fibers, polymer optical waveguides, etc.

[0105] Known optical connection techniques can be applied as the structure of the optical input / output unit. For example, there is a method where optical fibers or waveguides are arranged on the connection end face of the optical input / output unit for connection, such that the optical axes of the individual waveguide cores are aligned with each other; this is called "edge coupling." Spot size converter units, spatial optical systems including lens assemblies, etc., are combined with edge coupling to match the diameters of the various mode fields.

[0106] Additionally, in the case of so-called grating coupling, grating couplers can be integrated into a PIC (Photonic Component Interchange) or similar device, allowing light to be input and output from the top or bottom of the PIC. In this case, the optical path conversion unit can also be located at the connection end face of multiple optical fibers or waveguides. For example, an optical fiber array assembly with bent optical fibers incorporated and fixed therein, as well as a mirror for optical path conversion, can be integrated.

[0107] Alternatively, a thermally insulated coupling method can be used where the PIC and the core of the optical fiber or waveguide are brought close together to achieve thermally insulated light conversion. Furthermore, tiny polymer wiring can be formed between the connection targets, and optical connections can be achieved using optical shaping techniques.

[0108] As described above, the optical module includes an optical transceiver optically connected to an optical fiber or waveguide and a collection of various electrical components electrically connected thereto, which are also electrically connected to an integrated circuit, with electrical wiring and electrical contacts disposed on a substrate on which the integrated circuit is mounted, or with another electrical wiring assembly and electrical contacts disposed on the substrate.

[0109] The optical module can be mounted on the substrate in any known manner, as long as it allows for electrical connection. For example, optical transceivers, electrical components, etc., within the optical module can be directly mounted on the substrate and electrically connected via wire bonding, flip-chip bonding, or other methods.

[0110] Alternatively, the optical transceiver or electrical components can be mounted on another package substrate to form an optical module through the package, and the package can be mounted to be electrically connected to the substrate. As a method of electrical connection in this case, in addition to wire bonding or flip-chip connection, solder connections such as ball grid array (BGA) or pad grid array (LGA) can be used, or connections via solder portions such as pin grid array (PGA) or metal pillars can be made.

[0111] In addition to the electrical terminals, a pressing structure can be provided separately, and the electrical terminals can be connected as electrical connectors, such as so-called electrical sockets. In this case, the substrate and optical module are detachable.

[0112] In addition, as a package, a Si interposer with polyimide or other electrical wiring formed on the Si, a similar glass interposer, a ceramic substrate such as alumina or low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC), a printed substrate such as another glass epoxy board, a metal substrate, etc. can be used.

[0113] Alternatively, an interlayer made of a thin-film resin having electrical wiring inside a thin-film polyimide can be used. In this case, electrical components, PICs, etc., can be molded and protected.

[0114] Additionally, as described later, a cover assembly can be placed on the upper or outer portion of the package. The cover assembly, for example, is made of metal and serves to protect the electrical components and the optical transceiver. Furthermore, the optical module can be thermally connected to the electrical components, the optical transceiver, or the package via a heat transfer section, which is located between the components, and the optical module can have the function of transferring or dissipating heat generated by the various elements constituting the optical module to the outside.

[0115] Next, the connected optical fibers will be described. The type and material of the optical fiber, as well as the type and material of the ferrule, can be any known type and material. For example, the optical fiber can be any known silica-based optical fiber and plastic optical fiber. Furthermore, the optical fiber can be any of the following: single-mode fiber, multimode fiber, polarization-maintaining fiber, photonic crystal fiber, multi-core fiber, etc.

[0116] Furthermore, although the outer surface of the optical fiber is coated, known resin coatings (e.g., acrylic, epoxy, silicone, polyimide, etc.) can be applied to the outer surface of the portion outside the micropores of the ferrule. Double or more silicone tubes, nylon coatings, etc., can also be applied. Of course, in the case of multi-core optical fibers, the fiber can be handled more easily by using known ribbon-shaped optical fibers that are formed as ribbons and bundled.

[0117] Similarly, instead of multiple optical fibers, optical waveguides with cores and claddings corresponding to multiple channels of the optical transceiver in the PIC can be used. The optical waveguides are, for example, made of polymer resin, and of, for example, resin in which the refractive index of the core and cladding is adjusted.

[0118] As the material for polymer waveguides, any known waveguide material can be used. For example, epoxy resin, acrylic resin, silicone resin, polyimide resin, polynorbornene resin, polyoxocyclic butane resin, organic-inorganic hybrid resin, etc., can be used, or halogen-substituted products obtained by fluorination, chlorination or bromination of the resin can be used.

[0119] Additionally, any derivative with a partially modified chemical structure based on the resin can be used. Of course, single-mode or multimode waveguides can be used, and the waveguide core spacing and number of channels can be arbitrarily applied.

[0120] In addition to polymer waveguides, glass-based waveguides with a glass core can also be used. From the viewpoint of flexibility, thin-film glass is preferred as a waveguide other than polymer, and in this case, the waveguide can be formed, for example, by changing the refractive index through light induction.

[0121] Multiple optical fibers or optical waveguides are provided with an optical connector (first optical connector) 11 at one end opposite to the end connected to the optical module.

[0122] Optical connectors are, for example, ferrules comprising multiple micro-holes with an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the optical fiber (e.g., around 0.5 to 1.5 μm), such as the known MT ferrule.

[0123] The optical connector has a separate positioning structure, which includes, for example, two guide pins (male side) and guide pin holes (female side) at both ends used in the connection of an MT connector. When the optical connector is connected, the guide pins in one ferrule are inserted into the other ferrule, thereby achieving high-precision positioning of the optical fiber.

[0124] The coated optical fiber is housed in a micro-hole within an optical connector, and then secured to the ferrule with adhesive. Note that the adhesive is not shown in the diagram.

[0125] In addition, the connection faces of the optical fiber and the ferrule are ground flat to make them essentially flush with each other. The connection face of the optical fiber can be ground to protrude slightly from the ferrule face and become a convex spherical surface. The grinding angle can be a right angle or a known angle of inclination of the end face.

[0126] The optical fibers are arranged with a spacing of, for example, approximately 250 μm, and the number of optical fibers in the figure is 8. Of course, the spacing and number of cores are arbitrary, corresponding to the number of channels in the optical module, and any number of cores such as 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, and 32 can be used.

[0127] Although the outer periphery of the optical fiber is coated, a known resin coating (e.g., acrylic, epoxy, silicone, polyimide, etc.) is arranged around the portion outside the micropores of the ferrule, and the optical fiber is also assembled into multiple ribbon optical fibers.

[0128] Alternatively, a separate sheath assembly integrated with the ferrule can be provided to protect the optical fiber. The sheath portion is a known sheath portion used for assembling MT connectors, etc., and can be omitted if necessary.

[0129] Additionally, depending on the requirements, separate components or bonding materials can be provided on the male ferrule to secure the guide pin and prevent it from falling out. Furthermore, although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the guide pin hole, micro-hole, and the area near the tip of the guide pin can be tapered to facilitate insertion, depending on the requirements.

[0130] Note that, as described later, the form of multi-core optical connectors is not limited to MT ferrules, and any known optical connector that enables multi-core fiber connections can be used. For example, multiple micro-holes can be formed on a cylindrical ferrule used for single-core connectors to secure the fiber. Alternatively, a structure known as a fan-in / fan-out structure for multi-core fibers can be used, for example, a structure in which multiple fibers are filled and arranged in a micro-hole and secured.

[0131] When using cylindrical ferrules, two opposing ferrules are simply aligned and held together by a split sleeve or similar adapter, which is called a single-core connector. In this case, the optical fiber housed in an optical connector can be a multi-core fiber.

[0132] In addition, any of the general-purpose plastics, engineering plastics, and super engineering plastics commonly used in MT ferrules can be used as the material for multi-core ferrules.

[0133] Furthermore, processed products based on any material such as glass, semiconductor, or ceramic can be used with the same structure.

[0134] For example, in a known fiber array, a ferrule structure made of glass with a positioning structure can be formed by applying a structure in which the optical fiber is housed in a glass V-groove and a cover assembly is placed on the optical fiber and fixed with adhesive, and two guide pins are positioned at predetermined positions at both ends and joined around their periphery.

[0135] Similarly, as an alignment structure, in addition to the alignment structure of the guide pin used in MT ferrules, protrusions can also be formed on or attached to one of the end faces of the ferrule, and guide grooves adapted to the protrusions can be provided on one of the end faces of the ferrule, similar to the assembly of a notch and a slot. Furthermore, assemblies with similar external shapes can be used; any assembly structure can be applied as long as the same precision can be ensured.

[0136] Furthermore, even when using waveguides such as polymer waveguides to replace multiple optical fibers, similarly, by setting rectangular slots or rectangular holes in the MT ferrule to accommodate the polymer waveguide and fixing the waveguide in the ferrule, the ferrule and the polymer waveguide can be integrated to have an optical connector structure similar to that when connecting known polymer waveguides using MT connectors (PMT connectors).

[0137] Magnetic components (first magnetic component 114 and second magnetic component 124) are arranged around or inside each of the optical connectors (first optical connector 11 and second optical connector 12) that are connected to each other, and are coupled to the ferrule. The magnetic components are composed of a permanent magnet as a hard magnetic material or a soft magnetic material (e.g., a magnetic metal attached to the magnet), or a composite of hard and soft magnetic materials.

[0138] When at least one of the first magnetic components 114 or the second magnetic component 124 facing each other in the first optical connector 11 and the second optical connector 12 is a permanent magnet made of a hard magnetic material, magnetic force can be applied between the facing magnetic components. Note that, without requiring the optical connectors to be attached and detached from each other, the magnetic components can be permanently connected as needed using additional mechanical components, adhesives, etc. Note that the structure, materials, and effects of the magnetic components will be described later.

[0139] The details of the mounting structure 10 according to this embodiment will be described below. In the mounting structure 10, multiple short optical fibers 13 are led out from multiple optical modules 14, and a first optical connector 11 is provided at the end of each of the multiple short optical fibers 13. FIG. 1A Similarly, the second optical connector 12 is connected to the optical connector by facing the optical connector. FIG. 1B ).

[0140] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B Perspective views of the periphery of the optical connector of structure 10 before and after connection are shown. Additionally, FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B The installation structure 10 is shown before and after connection. FIG. 2B Plane A in the diagram serves as a schematic top view of the cross-section.

[0141] In the mounting structure 10, the first optical connector 11 includes: a ferrule 113, in which multiple optical fibers (first optical fibers) 13 are housed by a sheath 112, the sheath 112 being located between the multiple optical fibers 13 and the ferrule 113; a first magnetic component 114; and a guide pin 115 serving as a positioning structure on the end face 113_1 of the ferrule.

[0142] Additionally, the second optical connector 12 includes: a ferrule 123, in which multiple optical fibers (second optical fibers) 13_2 are housed via a sheath 122, the sheath 122 being located between the multiple optical fibers 13_2 and the ferrule 123; a second magnetic component 124; and a guide hole 125 serving as a positioning structure on the end face of the ferrule facing the first optical connector 11, into which a guide pin 115 is inserted (assembled).

[0143] Here, ferrule 113 is, for example, an MT ferrule.

[0144] Furthermore, each magnetic component is made of a hard magnetic material (so-called permanent magnet). As the material for the permanent magnet, any known magnet can be used depending on the magnetic force to be applied. Neodymium magnets can be used as a representative magnet. Alternatively, any known magnet can be used, such as ferrite magnets, AlNiCo magnets, Samarium Cobalt magnets, KS steel, MK steel, or NdFeB magnets. Furthermore, any magnet whose magnetic properties can be adjusted by slightly modifying its composition can also be used. These can be appropriately selected, taking into account the necessary magnetic force, thermal demagnetization at the operating temperature, etc.

[0145] In addition, the first magnetic component 114 and the second magnetic component 124 are arranged to surround the periphery of the ferrules 113 and 123 in the first optical connector 11 and the second optical connector 12, respectively, and are integrated with the ferrules.

[0146] Furthermore, although an example is described of providing a guide pin on the end face of the ferrule 113 of the first optical connector 11 and a guide hole on the end face of the ferrule 123 of the second optical connector 12, the guide hole may be provided on the end face of the ferrule 113 of the first optical connector 11, and the guide pin may be provided on the end face of the ferrule 123 of the second optical connector 12.

[0147] The ferrule 113 of the first optical connector 11 and the ferrule 123 of the second optical connector 12 are positioned by guide pins.

[0148] Here, the optical fiber is, for example, a silicon-based single-mode optical fiber with a cladding diameter of 125 μm and a core diameter of approximately 10 μm.

[0149] The ferrules 113 and 123, as well as the first magnetic assembly 114 and the second magnetic assembly 124, are integrated via an adhesive. Note that in addition to bonding, integration can also be performed by mechanical assembly or metal bonding (solder, etc.), or by inserting another mechanical component for integration, and integration can be performed by any known method, as long as the magnetic force between the magnetic components is transferred to the ferrules.

[0150] Here, in the magnetic assembly made of magnets, the N pole and S pole are arranged such that a magnetic attraction acts between facing magnetic assemblies. For example, when using a magnet in which the N pole and S pole are magnetized along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, when the N pole side is arranged on the connection end face side of the first magnetic assembly 114 and the S pole side is arranged on the connection end face side of the second magnetic assembly 124, the magnetic attraction acts through the N and S poles. Through this magnetic force, the attraction also acts between the ferrules integrated with the magnetic assemblies.

[0151] In addition, the optical fiber is polished to protrude slightly from the ferrule at the connection end face relative to the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.

[0152] Furthermore, the connection end face of the magnetic component and the connection end face of the ferrule are positioned such that the connection end face of the magnetic component, or the same face, extends from the connection end face of the ferrule along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. This positional relationship minimizes the gap between the permanent magnets serving as the magnetic component without hindering contact between the facing optical fiber end faces, and allows for the application of a large magnetic force.

[0153] The effects of such a structure will be described below. In the mounting configuration of optical modules such as conventional CPO, multiple optical fibers that are optically connected to multiple optical modules on the substrate are led out and connected to one optical connector via an optical connector located at one end of the optical fiber. Light is input to and output from the external optical fiber.

[0154] Here, when connecting optical connectors, it is necessary to maintain the connection while applying a constant pressing force to the connection end faces. However, in the connection structure of conventional optical connectors, an optical connector is required to apply the pressing force. This optical connector uses leaf spring assemblies such as clips or claws, or spring assemblies such as coil springs. In addition, a mechanical fastening structure is required to maintain the connection.

[0155] However, in conventional connection structures, the size of spring assemblies such as leaf springs and coil springs, as well as the additional housing assemblies used to hold the spring assemblies, limits the miniaturization of connector connection structures.

[0156] Furthermore, to perform insertion and removal using leaf spring assemblies, the spring assemblies need to be deformed, thus requiring space for the actual connection work and additional space for inserting connection clamps, etc. This workspace necessitates a certain or even larger gap between multiple optical connectors when connecting a large number of them, which is a limiting factor for high-density arrangement of multiple optical connectors. Therefore, there is a problem that limits the high-density mounting of optical modules on the substrate.

[0157] Using the structure of the present invention, pressing force can be applied between the connecting end faces by magnetic attraction without using the mechanical spring assembly as described above, and the connection state can be maintained by magnetic attraction without using the leaf spring assembly or housing assembly.

[0158] Therefore, the number of components required for optical connector connections can be reduced, and space savings in the connection section can be achieved. Furthermore, the complex work required for inserting and removing components such as leaf spring assemblies can be eliminated, and the installation space required for attachment and disassembly can be minimized. Thus, optical connector connection structures with significantly higher density than conventional methods can be achieved, and multiple optical modules can be mounted on the substrate at high density.

[0159] Note that for the connection between optical fibers in the optical connector, as in this embodiment, the protrusion of the fiber end face relative to the ferrule end face is appropriately provided, and pressing pressure is applied by a magnet so that physical contact (PC) connection can be achieved in all optical fibers.

[0160] Of course, the connection methods between optical connectors are not limited to this. For example, the gap between the optical fibers to be connected can be filled with a resin (refractive index matching material) with an appropriate refractive index to suppress Fresnel reflection. Additionally, by obliquely grinding the fiber end faces, a connection method that suppresses return light accompanying Fresnel reflection can be adopted. Furthermore, when a gap is provided between the connection end faces, microlens structures, microlens assemblies, etc., can be provided near the fiber end faces, and a spatial coupling system can be constructed and connected. In the case of a spatial coupling system, for example, the connection end face of the magnetic component can be arranged to protrude from the connection end face of the ferrule. Additionally, an anti-reflective coating can be appropriately applied to the fiber connection end faces. Alternatively, a configuration can be adopted that prevents return light due to the oblique end faces while more easily providing a constant air gap.

[0161] Next, the tolerances of the magnetic components will be described. The surfaces of the facing magnetic components are preferably parallel to each other to stabilize the vector of magnetic attraction in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. However, even with imperfect parallelism, the reduction in optical coupling loss can be negligible if the mating angle between the ferrules in the longitudinal direction does not deviate significantly. In other words, good optical properties can be achieved even with parallelism that can be ensured with actual manufacturing precision.

[0162] Note that in the case of a pair of facing inserts (two) without the aforementioned hard magnetic material (permanent magnet), if only one of them is a permanent magnet and the other magnetic component is a soft magnetic material, then magnetic force acts between the magnetic components, and thus similar applications are possible.

[0163] <Modifications of the First Embodiment>

[0164] In the mounting structure 10_1 of the modified example according to the first embodiment, as follows: FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B As shown, the first magnetic component 114 on the side of the first optical connector 11 connected to the optical module 14 is a magnetic metal, which is a soft magnetic material.

[0165] In the mounting structure 10_1, the optical module 14 is provided with a metal cover 15. The cover may be arranged to surround the periphery of the optical module, or it may be provided only on the upper part.

[0166] Here, as a soft magnetic material, metals known to be attracted by so-called magnets can be used, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, or stainless steel (SUS) as an iron-based alloy (e.g., SUS 430), which are magnetic materials.

[0167] Of course, when both the magnetic components being treated are magnets, the applied magnetic force and attraction are stronger. On the other hand, although the attraction is weaker than the above, from the viewpoints of processability, prevention of adhesion to other components, and prevention of the influence of magnetic force, other aspects can be handled by soft magnetic materials, and these can be appropriately selected according to the required attraction, the size of the magnetic components, and the required conditions.

[0168] In addition, FIGS. 2A-4B In the structure shown, the magnetic components (first magnetic component 114 or second magnetic component 124) are arranged around the periphery of (insert 113 or insert 123). Of course, the invention is not limited to this, as long as the structure can exert magnetic force. FIGS. 5A-5K The arrangement of the magnetic components (first magnetic component 114 or second magnetic component 124) and the ferrule (ferrule 113 or ferrule 123) is shown when viewed from the connection end face side of the optical connector.

[0169] like FIG. 5A As shown, in addition to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B In addition to the structure surrounded by magnetic components, FIG. 5B Of course, a configuration where only one outer surface is a magnetic component can be used. Additionally, as... FIG. 5C and FIG. 5D As shown, it can be arranged on the upper and lower surfaces or the left and right surfaces.

[0170] Furthermore, magnetic components do not have to be made of a single material; they can be a combination of hard and soft magnetic materials. For example, such as FIG. 5E As shown, one part of the periphery can be made of hard magnetic material (magnet), and another part of the periphery can be made of soft magnetic material.

[0171] In addition, such as FIG. 5F and FIG. 5G As shown, miniaturization and installability can be further enhanced by incorporating or penetrating magnetic components into the ferrule. They can be mechanically joined, integrated magnetically, or joined by any joining method such as bonding or welding.

[0172] Similarly, such as FIGS. 5H-5J As shown, a combination of multiple magnetic components can be used. Alternatively, magnetic metal components such as metal foil (e.g., SUS 430) can be attached to... FIGS. 5A-5KThe configuration of any end face within the magnet. Furthermore, to prevent the magnet or metal from rusting, electroplating can be performed as needed. By using a soft magnetic material such as nickel as the electroplating material, the reduction in magnetic force caused by the thickness of the electroplating can be minimized.

[0173] As will be described later in another embodiment, a structure in which a plate of magnetic components made of soft magnetic material is further disposed around the magnetic components can be adopted. FIG. 5K ).

[0174] Of course, this invention is not limited to FIGS. 5A-5K And any analogy can be used. Additionally, FIGS. 5A-5K Any combination of can be used as a pair to connect. FIG. 6 This is a perspective view of the mounting structure 10_2 of an optical module, showing examples of multiple combinations with different cross-sectional structures.

[0175] in addition, FIGS. 7A-7F The configuration variation of the positional relationship between the magnetic components (first magnetic component 114 or second magnetic component 124) and the ferrule (ferrule 113 or ferrule 123) is shown in a side cross-sectional view when viewed along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.

[0176] like FIG. 7A As shown, the magnetic component can be shorter than the ferrule, or as... FIG. 7B As shown, the magnetic component can, of course, be longer than the ferrule. In this case, for example, the ribbon fiber portion is naturally smaller than the ferrule in the thickness direction, so the thickness of the magnetic component can be varied along the ribbon fiber, such as... FIG. 7C As shown.

[0177] Furthermore, in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, the magnetic component does not have to be a single material, but can be a combination of hard magnetic materials and soft magnetic materials. For example... FIG. 7D and FIG. 7E As shown, in a similar manner FIG. 7C In this configuration, one part can be made of hard magnetic material, and another part can be made of metal, which is a soft magnetic material. This configuration can increase the magnetic force while suppressing the amount of magnet used, and can also serve as a sheath to protect optical fibers, etc.

[0178] like FIG. 7F As shown, the magnetic component can protrude further from the connection end face than the ferrule.

[0179] exist FIGS. 5A-5K and FIGS. 7A-7F In any of these combinations of multiple magnetic components, the magnetic components can be mechanically joined, either through magnetic integration or by any joining method such as adhesion or solder. Similarly, as a combination of magnetic components, methods such as...FIGS. 5A-5K and FIGS. 7A-7F The diagram shows any combination, and any combination can be used as a connection structure for a pair facing each other. Of course, other combinations can be used... FIGS. 5A-5K and FIGS. 7A-7F Any combination that can be analogized beyond the combinations shown. For example, magnetic components composed of magnetic metals, permanent magnets, and magnetic metals combined in the longitudinal direction can be used.

[0180] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in the case where one component is a magnetic assembly including magnets, the other can be made solely of soft magnetic material. If one of them is made solely of soft magnetic material, the magnetic force is slightly reduced compared to the case where both are made of magnets, but there is no need to worry about the combination and arrangement of the NS that exert the magnetic attraction. Therefore, this configuration may be preferred in practice, and only requires appropriate selection.

[0181] By using the above-described modifications, in addition to increasing the magnetic force for further miniaturization, it is also possible to achieve further space savings through shared components, as described later (in addition to improving manufacturability during manufacturing).

[0182] Furthermore, when using permanent magnets as magnetic components, a single magnet is not necessarily required. For example... FIG. 8A As shown, a configuration in which multiple permanent magnets 1141 and 1142 in the first magnetic component 114 and multiple permanent magnets 1241 and 1242 in the second magnetic component 124 are combined and connected can be used, or a multipole magnet divided one-dimensionally along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber or along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction can be used.

[0183] In addition, such as FIG. 8B As shown, a two-dimensional multipole magnet array can be employed, in which a plurality of permanent magnets 1141 and 1142 in the first magnetic component 114 and a plurality of permanent magnets 1241 and 1242 in the second magnetic component 124 are combined. The multipole magnet may include a pair of N and S connected magnet assemblies pre-magnetized by magnetic attraction, and the gaps may be filled with adhesives, solders, etc. as needed to form an integrated assembly.

[0184] Additionally, another soft magnetic material, such as a metal plate, can be added, which acts as a so-called magnetic yoke and applies a greater magnetic force. By having multiple poles and adding a magnetic yoke, the magnetic force per unit volume can be increased, and space savings can be further achieved.

[0185] In the mounting structure according to this embodiment and its variations, an example of housing multiple optical fibers (first optical fibers) 13 within a first optical connector 11 has been described, but as... FIG. 9As shown, polymer waveguides 111_2 and 121 can be used to replace multiple optical fibers. As described above, by using polymer waveguides to replace multiple optical fibers to have a structure similar to a PMT connector, the present invention can also be applied to connections between polymer waveguides or connections between polymer waveguides and optical fibers.

[0186] <Second Embodiment>

[0187] Reference FIGS. 10A-10B The mounting structure of the optical module according to a second embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0188] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0189] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B These are perspective views of the mounting structure 20 of the optical module according to the second embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. The basic configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, and in the first optical connector 21, as described above, an MT ferrule is used as the ferrule 213, and a guide pin is used as the positioning structure.

[0190] In the first optical connector 21, the first magnetic component 214 is disposed on and integrated with the upper surface of the ferrule 213. FIG. 10A As shown, the upper surface portion of the first magnetic component 214 extends into the optical module 14 and integrates with a cover arranged around the optical module 14. At this time, the first magnetic component 214 on the side of the first optical connector 21 is made of an iron-based material of a magnetic metal, which is a soft magnetic material.

[0191] As a specific configuration, the first optical fiber 13 is arranged below the first magnetic component 214 extending from the first optical connector 21, and the optical module 14 is arranged below the first magnetic component 214 around the substrate 2.

[0192] In this embodiment, an example of a narrow width above the first optical fiber 13 has been described as the upper surface shape of the first magnetic component 214, but the upper surface shape is not limited to this and can be a rectangle with a constant width.

[0193] In this embodiment, an example has been described where the first magnetic component 214 is arranged only on the upper surface of the insert 213; however, the first magnetic component 214 can be arranged on the side or bottom surface of the insert 213. For example, the first magnetic component 214 only needs to be arranged on the upper surface of the insert 213. FIGS. 5A-5K The layout is as shown.

[0194] On the other hand, in the second optical connector 22, the second magnetic component 224 is arranged on the upper surface of the ferrule 223. Here, the second magnetic component 224 is made of neodymium magnet, which is a hard magnetic material. Therefore, the facing end faces of the first magnetic component 214 and the second magnetic component 224 are connected by magnetic force, thereby connecting the first optical connector 21 and the second optical connector 22.

[0195] In this embodiment, an example has been described where the second magnetic component 224 is arranged only on the upper surface of the insert 223; however, the second magnetic component 224 can be arranged on the side or bottom surface of the insert 223. For example, the second magnetic component 224 only needs to be arranged on the side or bottom surface of the insert 223. FIGS. 5A-5K The arrangement shown is only required to have a configuration where magnetic force acts between the first magnetic component 214 and the second magnetic component.

[0196] As described above, the magnetic metal, serving as the first magnetic component 214, is integrated with a cover arranged around the optical module 14. That is, the cover is also made of magnetic metal. The cover serves to protect the electrical components and optical transceivers within the optical module 14, and is thermally connected to the electrical components and optical transceivers, or to the encapsulation portion on which the electrical components and optical transceivers are mounted, via a heat transfer portion, which is located therebetween. The cover also functions to transfer or dissipate heat generated by each component constituting the optical module 14 to the outside.

[0197] This configuration produces effects similar to those of the first embodiment. In other words, mechanical spring assemblies can be used to apply pressure between optical connectors via magnetic attraction, and the connection can be maintained solely by magnetic attraction without the use of leaf spring assemblies, housing assemblies, etc.

[0198] Therefore, the number of components required for optical connector connections can be reduced, and space savings can be achieved in the connection area. Furthermore, the complex work required for inserting and removing components such as leaf spring assemblies can be eliminated, and the installation space required for attachment and disassembly can be minimized.

[0199] Therefore, it is possible to achieve a connection structure for optical connectors with significantly higher density than in conventional cases, and multiple optical modules can be mounted on the substrate at high density.

[0200] In addition to the effects described above, according to this embodiment, by sharing the first magnetic component 214 with the cover of the optical module 14, the total number of components can be reduced, and space savings in the optical module can be further achieved.

[0201] Furthermore, the heat generated from the optical module 14 is dissipated through the cover, but with this configuration, the surface area of ​​the cover can be increased towards the fiber optic lead-out side. In this case, the cover preferably has high thermal conductivity, and an iron-based cover is preferred over a SUS-based cover. Additionally, the thermal conductivity can be improved by increasing the cover thickness or decreasing the surface heat transfer coefficient. Furthermore, although not shown, a component with high thermal conductivity can be attached separately to the cover to efficiently transfer heat to the optical connector side. For example, graphite sheets, heat pipes, etc., can also be integrated onto the cover. This also applies to the following embodiments.

[0202] In a conventional configuration, since integrated circuits and other optical modules are densely arranged around an optical module, in order to increase the surface area of ​​the cover, fins are needed, the thickness is increased, or additional area of ​​the substrate is required.

[0203] This configuration allows the cover to be extended to the fiber optic outlet side to increase the surface area without taking up additional cover heat dissipation space, thus enabling a further space-saving optical module mounting method.

[0204] In addition, by adopting the same structure, since the first optical connector 21 is connected to the first magnetic component 214, the optical fiber 13 leading out from the optical module 14 and the first optical connector 21 can be prevented from drooping due to gravity and the optical fiber can be supported, and excessive stress can be prevented from being applied to the optical fiber 13.

[0205] Therefore, it can also demonstrate the effect of physically protecting the short optical fiber connected to the optical module.

[0206] Note that when heat is applied to the cover, heat is also transferred to the first magnetic component 214 (integrated with the cover) near the first optical connector 21. However, since the positioning of the optical fiber is performed by positioning the MT ferrule and the guide pin, the optical properties can be maintained without affecting the misalignment of the optical axes between the optical fibers.

[0207] Additionally, in this embodiment, the cover and the first magnetic component 214 are described as an integrated component by way of example, but a similar effect can be achieved even if the cover and the first magnetic component are configured to be connected by any method such as adhesion, solder or mechanical fastening after being installed as separate components.

[0208] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the first magnetic component 214 and the second magnetic component 224 are arranged only on the upper surfaces of the inserts 213 and 223, respectively. Of course, the first magnetic component 214 and the second magnetic component 224 can be applied to a configuration that covers the periphery or a configuration that covers three sides.

[0209] <Third Embodiment>

[0210] ReferenceFIG. 11A and FIG. 11B The mounting structure of the optical module according to a third embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0211] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0212] FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B These are perspective views of the mounting structure 30 of the optical module according to the third embodiment of the present invention, before and after connection. The basic configuration is the same as that of the second embodiment, and the first magnetic component 314 is integrated with the first optical connector 31 around the first optical connector 31, which is connected to the optical module 14 via a short optical fiber 13, which is located between the first optical connector 31 and the optical module 14. The upper surface portion of the first magnetic component 314 extends to the optical module 14 and is integrated with a cover disposed around the optical module 14.

[0213] In the mounting structure 30 according to this embodiment, such as FIG. 11A As shown, the first magnetic component 314_3 on the optical module 14 side is made of magnetic metal nickel. On the other hand, the first magnetic component 314 on the first optical connector 31 side is made of a composite of nickel 314_1, a magnetic metal that is a soft magnetic material, and samarium cobalt magnet 314_2, a hard magnetic material, and the samarium cobalt magnet 314_2, which has less thermal demagnetization, is connected to nickel 314_3 on the optical module 14 side.

[0214] On the other hand, the second magnetic component 324, which is integrated with the second optical connector 32 connected to the first optical connector 31, is made of neodymium magnets as hard magnetic materials.

[0215] In this structure, the facing end faces of the first magnetic component 314 and the second magnetic component 324 are connected by magnetic force, thereby connecting the first optical connector 31 and the second optical connector 32.

[0216] At this time, the magnetic metal included in the first magnetic component 314 is integrated with the metal cover arranged around the optical module 14.

[0217] As described above, the first magnetic component 314 is a composite material, but the area near the connection end face of the first optical connector 31 is made of magnetic metal, and the magnet is arranged at a position away from the connection end face towards the optical module 14 along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber. The magnetic metal 314_1 and the magnet 314_2 in the first magnetic component 314 are connected by magnetic force.

[0218] In addition, the N pole and S pole of the magnet 314_2 included in the first magnetic component 314 are magnetized along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, and the second magnetic component 324 including the magnet is similarly magnetized along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber and arranged in the opposite direction to the magnetic poles of the magnet 314_2.

[0219] Therefore, a magnetic circuit is formed along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber through the magnetic metal portion, wherein the magnet portion of the first magnetic component 314 and the magnet portion of the second magnetic component 324 are included in the first magnetic component 314 and integrated with the metal cover, and a magnetic attraction is applied between the connecting end faces.

[0220] Using this structure, the same effect as described in the first and second embodiments is achieved. There is no need to use mechanical pressing components, leaf spring components for maintaining the connection state, or housing components. This reduces the number of components required for the optical connector connection and saves space in the connection section.

[0221] In addition, it can eliminate the complicated work required for inserting and removing leaf spring assemblies, and can also minimize the installation space required for attachment and disassembly.

[0222] In addition, as in the second embodiment, the heat generated from the optical module 14 is dissipated through the cover. However, in this configuration, by increasing the surface area of ​​the cover toward the fiber optic lead-out side, an optical module mounting method that does not occupy additional cover heat dissipation space can be achieved, thus saving space.

[0223] In addition, by adopting the same structure, since the first optical connector 31 is connected to the first magnetic component 314, the optical fiber 13 leading out from the optical module 14 and the first optical connector 31 can be prevented from drooping due to gravity and the optical fiber can be supported, and excessive stress can be prevented from being applied to the optical fiber 13.

[0224] Therefore, it can also demonstrate the effect of physically protecting the short optical fiber connected to the optical module.

[0225] In addition, in the third embodiment, since the first magnetic component 314 also includes a magnet, the magnetic force per unit volume can be greatly increased compared to the second embodiment.

[0226] Therefore, the size of the magnetic components used to apply the necessary pressing force can be further miniaturized, and further space savings can be achieved.

[0227] In addition, since the outer dimensions of the short fiber section are larger than those around the optical connector, a larger magnet can be arranged along the short fiber, which is also suitable for increasing magnetic force without increasing space.

[0228] Note that, of course, any combination described above can be used as long as the size and arrangement of the magnets in the first magnetic component 314 and the positional relationship between the magnetic metal and the magnets are maintained within the range described above.

[0229] In this embodiment, for example, in the first magnetic component 314, an example of using a component with magnetic metal integrated near the connection portion of the cover and connector has been shown, but a combination of multiple magnetic metal components and magnets arranged along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber can be used.

[0230] For example, the magnetic metal cover, permanent magnet, and magnetic metal near the connector connection part surrounding the optical module can be arranged in this order along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber and connected by magnetic force or magnetic force and bonding material.

[0231] Furthermore, optical fiber has been described as an example of a connection object, but of course, the present invention can also be applied to connections between optical waveguides, or between optical waveguides and optical fibers.

[0232] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0233] Reference FIGS. 12A-14B The mounting structure of the optical module according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0234] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0235] FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B These are perspective views of the mounting structure 40 of the optical module according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention before and after connection. The basic configuration is the same as that of the second embodiment, and the first magnetic component 414 is integrated around the first optical connector 41, which is connected to the optical module 14 via a short optical fiber 13, which is located between the first optical connector 41 and the optical module 14.

[0236] At this time, the first magnetic component 414 on the first optical connector 41 side is composed of a composite of SUS 430, a magnetic metal as a soft magnetic material, and neodymium magnets as a hard magnetic material. Here, in the first magnetic component 414, the upper surface is made of magnetic metal, and the two side surfaces and the bottom surface are made of hard magnetic material. Alternatively, the first magnetic component 414 only needs to have, for example... FIGS. 5A-5K The configuration shown can be achieved simply by having the upper surface made of magnetic metal.

[0237] On the other hand, the second magnetic component 424 integrated with the second optical connector 42 connected to the first optical connector 41 is made of neodymium magnet as a hard magnetic material. Alternatively, the second magnetic component 424 integrated with the second optical connector 42 connected to the first optical connector 41 may be made of a composite of neodymium magnet as a hard magnetic material and magnetic metal component.

[0238] At this time, the magnetic metal included in the first magnetic component 414 is integrated with the metal cover arranged around the optical module 14.

[0239] Furthermore, although the first magnetic component 414 is a composite material, the magnetic metal portion and the permanent magnet portion made of hard magnetic material are arranged near the connection end face of the first optical connector 41. That is, the permanent magnet is arranged around the ferrule 413, and the magnetic metal integrated with the metal cover is disposed on the upper part of the permanent magnet. The permanent magnet included in the first magnetic component 414 is integrated with the ferrule 413 of the first optical connector 41 via adhesive or the like, and the permanent magnet portion is connected to the magnetic metal disposed on it by magnetic force.

[0240] Similar to the first magnetic component 414, in the second magnetic component 424, the magnet and the magnetic metal are arranged such that the cross-section of their connecting end face is substantially the same as the cross-section of the connecting end face of the first magnetic component 414.

[0241] With this structure, the same effect as described in the first to third embodiments is achieved: the use of mechanical pressing components, leaf spring components for maintaining the connection state, or housing components is eliminated, the number of components required for the optical connector connection can be reduced, and space savings can be achieved in the connection part.

[0242] In addition, it can eliminate the complicated work required for inserting and removing leaf spring assemblies, and can also minimize the installation space required for attachment and disassembly.

[0243] In addition, as in the second and third embodiments, the heat generated from the optical module 14 is dissipated through the cover. However, in this configuration, by increasing the surface area of ​​the cover toward the fiber optic lead-out side, an optical module mounting method that does not occupy additional cover heat dissipation space can be achieved, thus saving space.

[0244] In addition, by adopting the same structure, since the first optical connector 41 is connected to the first magnetic component 414, the optical fiber 13 leading out from the optical module 14 and the first optical connector 41 can be prevented from drooping due to gravity and the optical fiber can be supported, and excessive stress can be prevented from being applied to the optical fiber 13.

[0245] Therefore, it can also demonstrate the effect of physically protecting the short optical fiber connected to the optical module.

[0246] In addition, in the fourth embodiment, since the first magnetic component 414 also includes a magnet, and further, the connecting end face also includes a magnet, a greater magnetic force per unit volume can be applied between the magnetic structures compared to the second embodiment.

[0247] Furthermore, in this case, compared to the connection between magnets described in the first embodiment, magnetic leakage into space can be suppressed and the magnetic force can be further increased because the magnetic metal is arranged on the periphery.

[0248] Therefore, the size of the magnetic components used to apply the necessary pressing force can be further miniaturized, and further space savings can be achieved in the installation of the optical module.

[0249] Furthermore, the first ferrule 413 constituting the first optical connector 41 is integrated with the surrounding magnet using a bonding material and is connected to the magnetic metal above it only by magnetic force. Therefore, when the connectors are connected to each other, the magnetic metal and the permanent magnet can be temporarily separated from each other in the cover and the first magnetic assembly 414 as needed.

[0250] In this embodiment, an example of arranging a magnet on the connection end face of an optical connector in the configuration of the second embodiment has been described. However, if a magnet is arranged on the connection end face of an optical connector in the configuration of the third embodiment, the magnetic force can be further enhanced.

[0251] <First Variation of the Fourth Embodiment>

[0252] FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B This is a perspective view of the mounting structure 40_1 of the optical module according to a modified example of the fourth embodiment, before and after connection. FIG. 13A In the first magnetic assembly 414, the magnet part 414_1 and the magnetic metal parts 414_2 and 414_3 are arranged separately along the longitudinal direction of the first magnetic assembly 414, and the magnetic metal part 414_3 is integrated with the cover on the optical module 14 side.

[0253] Specifically, in the first optical connector 41, a first magnetic component is arranged around the ferrule 413, and the first magnetic component is composed of a magnet (magnet portion 414_1) including an upper surface. The end face of the portion of the first magnetic component composed of magnetic metal (magnetic metal portion) 414_2 arranged above the first optical fiber 13 is magnetically connected to the end face of the upper surface of the magnet portion 414_1.

[0254] As described above, the magnet portion 414_1 of the first magnetic component 414 is arranged around the ferrule 413 and is connected to the second magnetic component 424 around the second optical connector 42 by applying magnetic force. Even with this configuration, the same effect as described above can be achieved.

[0255] <Second Variation of the Fourth Embodiment>

[0256] FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B This is a perspective view of the mounting structure 40_2 of the optical module according to a variation of the fourth embodiment, before and after connection. In this variation, the first magnetic component 414 integrated with the cover is entirely composed of a permanent magnet of hard magnetic material. The first magnetic component 414 is connected to the second magnetic component 424 surrounding the second optical connector 42 by applying magnetic force.

[0257] Therefore, the same effect as described above can be achieved. Specifically, by arranging the permanent magnets to be longer in the longitudinal direction, the volume of the magnets can be greatly increased without increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the connection section. This allows for a greater magnetic force to be applied per unit volume between the magnetic structures compared to the embodiments described above, and further space savings can be achieved in the installation of the optical module.

[0258] Note that in this embodiment, optical fiber is shown as an example of a connection object, but of course, the invention can also be applied to connections between optical waveguides or between optical waveguides and optical fibers.

[0259] <Fifth Embodiment>

[0260] Reference FIGS. 15A-17B The mounting structure of the optical module according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0261] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0262] FIG. 15A A perspective view of the first optical connector 51 and the second optical connector 52 in the mounting structure of the optical module according to this embodiment is shown before connection. FIG. 15B A side cross-sectional view of the connected mounting structure is shown. The basic configuration is essentially the same as that of the first variation of the fourth embodiment, using an MT ferrule as the ferrule in the same manner as described above, using a guide pin as the positioning structure (not shown), and magnetic components are arranged around the ferrule and integrated.

[0263] The first magnetic component 514 is integrated around the first optical connector 51, which is connected to the optical module 14 via a short optical fiber 13, which is located between the first optical connector 51 and the optical module 14.

[0264] Additionally, the upper surface portion of the first magnetic component 514 extends into the optical module 14 and is integrated with a cover arranged around the optical module 14, and the magnetic metal portion and the magnet portion are separately connected in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber.

[0265] In this embodiment, unlike the first variation in the fourth embodiment, the first magnetic component 514 protrudes from the end face of the ferrule 513 on the side connected to the second optical connector 52, and is composed of a composite of a portion 514_1 extending from the optical module 14 side to the ferrule 513 and a protruding portion 514_2. The former 514_1 is made of SUS 430 as a magnetic metal, and the latter 514_2 is made of neodymium magnet as a hard magnetic material.

[0266] On the other hand, the second magnetic component 524, which is integrated with the second optical connector 52 connected to the first optical connector 51, is made of neodymium magnets as hard magnetic materials.

[0267] With the above configuration, the first ferrule 513 in the first optical connector 51 and the connection end face of the multiple optical fibers (first optical fibers) 13 incorporated in the ferrule 513 are accommodated in the magnetic metal part 514_1, and a gap is generated between the connection end face and the connection end face of the optical fiber (second optical fiber) 13_2 incorporated in the second ferrule 523 in the second optical connector 52.

[0268] In addition, the magnet portion (protrusion) 514_2 of the first magnetic component 514 is set to a predetermined length and has a configuration with an opening so as not to interfere with each guide pin (not shown) provided at one end of the optical connector and the spatial beam input and output from the optical fibers 13 and 13_2, and the magnet portion 514_2 of the first magnetic component 514 is connected to the magnetic metal portion 514_1 of the first magnetic component 514.

[0269] Furthermore, a microlens array structure 53 as described above is disposed near the connection end face of each of the optical fibers 13 and 13_2 to be connected. An anti-reflective film is formed on the end face of the microlens to suppress Fresnel reflection with air. Note that the microlens assembly can be individually arranged near each connection end face.

[0270] With this configuration, various effects similar to those described in the fourth embodiment can be achieved.

[0271] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the optical connection is achieved through a space optical system, the pressure required for the connection between connectors can be reduced compared to PC connections or mating coupling via an alignment agent. In this way, the magnetic components can be further miniaturized, and space for mounting the optical module can be further saved.

[0272] <First Variation of the Fifth Embodiment>

[0273] like FIG. 16A As shown, the ferrule can be a cylindrical ferrule used in single-core connectors to secure multiple optical fibers.

[0274] When using cylindrical ferrules, positioning between cylindrical ferrules connected to each other is performed not by guide pins but by being housed in known split sleeves.

[0275] In this variation, an example of a fan-in / fan-out structure using multi-core optical fibers will be described. FIG. 16B and FIG. 16C These are cross-sectional views of the ferrule 513 of the first optical connector 51 and the ferrule 523 of the second optical connector 52.

[0276] A cylindrical ferrule made of zirconium oxide or the like serves as the ferrule 513 of the first optical connector 51, and a micro-hole in the cylindrical ferrule can be filled with multiple optical fibers 131 having a reduced diameter to perform positioning. The small-diameter optical fibers 131 include a core 131a and a cladding 131b, and the multiple small-diameter optical fibers 131 are fixed with adhesive 513a.

[0277] The multi-core optical fiber 132, including core 132a and cladding 132b, is housed in the ferrule 523 of the second optical connector 52 and is fixed in the ferrule 523 by adhesive 523a.

[0278] In this configuration, the core 131a of the small-diameter fiber 131 and the core 132a of the multi-core fiber 132 are made to correspond to each other through a fan-in / fan-out structure, thereby enabling multi-fiber optical connections.

[0279] The first optical connector 51 in the mounting structure according to this modification includes a cylindrical ferrule 513, a split sleeve 515, and a first magnetic assembly 514. The first magnetic assembly 514 includes a flange 514_4 on the proximal side (optical fiber 13 side) and a magnet portion 514_3 on the distal side (the side connecting to the second optical connector 52). Here, the flange 514_4 is made of SUS430, a magnetic metal. The magnet portion 514_3 has a through-hole for insertion of the split sleeve 515.

[0280] In the first optical connector 51, a cylindrical ferrule 513, which is inserted (assembled) and fixed to the hole (recess) of the flange 514_4, is inserted and fixed to the split sleeve 515 in the through hole of the magnet part 514_3.

[0281] The second optical connector 52 includes a cylindrical ferrule 523 and a second magnetic component 524. The second magnetic component 524 is formed by a flange 524_4 of SUS 430 as a magnetic metal, and the cylindrical ferrule 523 is inserted (assembled) and fixed in the hole (recess) of the flange 524_4.

[0282] The cylindrical insert 523 of the second optical connector 52 is inserted into the split sleeve 515 in the through hole of the magnet portion 514_3 in the first magnetic component 514 of the first optical connector 51, and the first optical connector 51 and the second optical connector 52 are connected.

[0283] Furthermore, the flange portion 514_4 of the first magnetic component 514 and the magnetic portion 514_3 connected in the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber are defined as permanent magnets. Therefore, magnetic force acts between the first magnetic component 514 and the second magnetic component 524. Thus, magnetic force is transmitted between the ferrules, and the pressing pressure required for PC connection can be applied to the connection end faces.

[0284] By arranging the connection structures of the first optical connector 51 and the second optical connector 52 in an array, the connection structure of multiple optical connectors can be realized without using a spring assembly (not shown).

[0285] As described above, effects similar to those of the fourth embodiment can be achieved. Furthermore, compared to multi-core ferrules such as the MT ferrule, the ferrule can be miniaturized, and further space savings can be achieved for mounting the optical module.

[0286] Note that in this embodiment, optical fiber is shown as an example of a connection object, but of course, the present invention can also be applied to connections between optical waveguides or between optical waveguides and optical fibers.

[0287] <Sixth Embodiment>

[0288] Reference FIGS. 17A-18 The mounting structure of the optical module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0289] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0290] FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B These are perspective views of the mounting structure 60 of the optical module according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention, before and after connection. The sixth embodiment can be applied to any of the first to fifth mounting forms and involves an array arrangement and coupling of multiple optical connector connection structures in the form of CPO.

[0291] Similar to the above embodiments, in the mounting structure 60, a plurality of first optical connectors 61 extending from a plurality of optical modules 14 are arranged side by side in an array around the substrate 2.

[0292] In the mounting structure 60 according to this embodiment, first magnetic components 614 surrounding a plurality of first optical connectors 61 are connected and integrated. For example, the first magnetic components 614 are SUS 430, which is a magnetic metal. The first magnetic components 614 are connected to a second magnetic component 624 on the upper part of the second optical connector 62 by applying a magnetic force.

[0293] With this configuration, in addition to exhibiting various effects similar to those described in the first to fifth embodiments, it is not necessary to arrange magnetic components around the multiple first optical connectors 61 separately. By using shared magnetic components, the number of components can be reduced, and the distance between the first optical connectors 61 can be minimized.

[0294] Furthermore, the size of the magnetic components can be increased, and the applied magnetic force can be further increased by increasing the size of the magnetic circuit. This means that the size of the connection cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic components required to apply the necessary magnetic force can be miniaturized. Therefore, further space savings can be achieved in the installation of the optical module.

[0295] Here, an example of the shared first magnetic component 614 being integrated or connected to a metal cover near the optical module 14 has been described, but as described in the first embodiment, the first magnetic component 614 can be separated from the cover as needed.

[0296] Furthermore, while examples have been described where all shared first magnetic components 614 are magnetic metals, of course, all first magnetic components 614 can be made of magnets. In this case, a monopole magnet of NS can be used, but as mentioned above, multipole magnets can be arranged in an array.

[0297] like FIG. 18 As shown, when multiple first optical connectors 61, which are derived from multiple optical modules 14, are arranged side by side in an array around the substrate 2, the first magnetic component 614 on the side of each first optical connector 61 is made of a composite of magnetic metal SUS 430 as a soft magnetic material and neodymium magnet as a hard magnetic material. Magnetic components 614_2 can be added between the multiple first magnetic components 614, so that magnetic force acts between the magnetic components to couple the first magnetic components.

[0298] Alternatively, a combination of an integrated magnetic metal shared by the optical connector and magnets separately disposed in the optical connector can be used, and as mentioned above, any magnetic component, such as a multipole magnet or a combination of magnets and magnetic metal, can be applied.

[0299] <Seventh Embodiment>

[0300] Reference FIGS. 19A-20B The mounting structure of the optical module according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0301] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0302] FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B These are perspective views of the mounting structure 70 of the optical module according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, before and after connection. The seventh embodiment can be applied to any of the first to sixth mounting forms and involves an array arrangement and coupling of multiple optical connector connection structures in the form of CPO.

[0303] Similar to the embodiments described above, in the mounting structure 70, a plurality of first optical connectors 71 extending from a plurality of optical modules 14 are arranged side by side in an array around the substrate 2.

[0304] At this time, a first magnetic component 714 is arranged around the first optical connector 71, but as in the sixth embodiment, the first magnetic component 714 is arranged to integrate a plurality of first optical connectors 71. For example, the first magnetic component 714 is SUS 430 as a magnetic metal.

[0305] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first magnetic component 714 is also integrated or coupled to a metal cover near the optical module 14, and the metal cover is shared, thereby being disposed together around the plurality of optical modules 14.

[0306] like FIG. 19A As shown, the first magnetic assembly 714 connecting the cover portion and the optical connector portion is segmented on each of the plurality of optical fibers 13. Alternatively, as FIG. 19B As shown, the first magnetic component can also be shared on multiple optical fibers 13 extending from multiple optical modules 14.

[0307] In this way, various effects similar to those described in the first to sixth embodiments can be exhibited, and furthermore, by also setting the cover as a magnetic component shared in multiple optical modules, the number of components can be further reduced.

[0308] Additionally, the size of the first magnetic component 714 can be increased, and the magnetic circuit can be enlarged to further increase the applied magnetic force. This means that the size of the connection cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic component required to apply the necessary magnetic force can be miniaturized.

[0309] Therefore, further space savings can be achieved in the installation of optical modules.

[0310] In addition, it has a secondary effect of further increasing the surface area of ​​the cover portion used for heat dissipation.

[0311] Note that, in order to further enhance heat dissipation, such as FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B In the mounting structure 70_1 shown, the magnetic component can be provided with a structure 76 to increase the surface area, such as a heat dissipation fin structure, thereby further increasing the surface area of ​​the cover portion. Additionally, although not shown, a component with high thermal conductivity can be attached separately to the cover to efficiently transfer heat to the optical connector side. For example, graphite sheets, heat pipes, etc., can also be integrated onto the cover.

[0312] Note that all the shared first magnetic components 714 have been described as examples of magnetic metals, but of course, they can all be made of magnets. In this case, a monopole magnet of NS can be used, but as mentioned above, multipole magnets can be arranged in an array. Alternatively, a combination of magnetic metals and magnets can be used.

[0313] In addition, in this embodiment, optical fiber is shown as an example of a connection object, but of course, the present invention can also be applied to the connection between optical waveguides or the connection between an optical waveguide and an optical fiber.

[0314] <Eighth Embodiment>

[0315] Reference FIGS. 21A-22B The mounting structure of the optical module according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0316] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0317] FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B This is a perspective view of the mounting structure 80 of the optical module according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. The components and connection structures are basically the same as those of the first embodiment, but the substrate 2 on which the integrated circuit 3 and multiple optical modules 14 are mounted are mounted on different second substrates (plates) 2_2, and the substrates are electrically connected to each other.

[0318] A first magnetic component 814, disposed around the first optical connector 81, is located on the lower part (substrate side) of the first optical connector 81 and is mounted on the second substrate 2_2. The first magnetic component 814 is connected to a second magnetic component 824 on the lower part (substrate side) of the second optical connector 82 by applying magnetic force. Here, the first magnetic component 814 can be configured as follows: FIG. 21A As shown, they are shared between optical connectors, or can be as follows: FIG. 21B As shown, they are separated.

[0319] In this way, various effects that are exactly the same as those described in the first embodiment can be exhibited.

[0320] Furthermore, by mounting the magnetic components at the lower part (on the substrate 2 side) of the first optical connector 81, a larger space is available for accommodating the magnetic components compared to the upper and outer parts. In this case, the lower space between the magnetic components is originally empty, and high-density mounting performance is not compromised.

[0321] Therefore, a greater magnetic force can be applied per unit cross-sectional area, allowing for further space savings in the installation of optical modules.

[0322] In addition, it can prevent the optical fibers and optical connectors leading from the optical module from drooping due to gravity and support the optical fibers, and prevent excessive stress from being applied to the optical fibers.

[0323] Therefore, it can also demonstrate the effect of physically protecting the short optical fiber connected to the optical module.

[0324] Of course, it can be combined with the first to seventh embodiments. For example, as in FIG. 22A and FIG. 22B In the mounting structure 80_1 shown, a cover and a first magnetic component 814_1 shared among the various optical connectors can be used on the upper part of the first optical connector 81, and another first magnetic component 814_2 can be disposed on the lower part (substrate 2 side) of the first optical connector 81 and mounted on the second substrate 2_2. The other first magnetic component 814_2 is connected to the second magnetic component 824 on the lower part (substrate side) of the second optical connector 82 by applying magnetic force. As described above, it is sufficient if a portion of the first magnetic component 814 is mounted on the second substrate 2_2 which is electrically connected to the substrate 2.

[0325] In addition, in this embodiment, optical fiber is shown as an example of a connection object, but of course, the present invention can also be applied to the connection between optical waveguides or the connection between an optical waveguide and an optical fiber.

[0326] <Ninth Embodiment>

[0327] Reference FIGS. 23A-23B The mounting structure of the optical module according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0328] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0329] FIG. 23A and FIG. 23BThis is a perspective view of the mounting structure 90 of the optical module according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. The mounting structure can be any combination of the first to eighth embodiments. The difference between this embodiment and the above embodiments is that multiple optical fibers 13 from the optical module 14 are housed in the first optical connector 91.

[0330] like FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B As shown, the first optical connector 91 accommodates multiple fiber optic groups 13 extending from two or more optical modules 14. FIG. 23A An example arrangement of two fiber optic groups (multiple fibers) 13 housed in a first optical connector 91 is shown.

[0331] The right image in the figure shows the mounting structure 90 before connection, and the two middle images show the mounting structure 90 after connection. The left image shows a configuration where the upper surface of the first magnetic component 914 extends above the optical module 14. The first magnetic component 914 is disposed around or on a portion (upper, side, etc.) of the periphery of the first optical connector 91. The first magnetic component 914 is connected to the second magnetic component 924 on the upper part of the second optical connector 92 by applying magnetic force. In this arrangement example, an example of arrangement on substrate 2 has been described, but a second substrate can also be used for arrangement.

[0332] FIG. 23B An example arrangement of four fiber optic groups (multiple fibers) 13 housed in a first optical connector 91 is shown. In the mounting structure 90_1, a first magnetic component 914_1 is disposed on the upper part of the first optical connector 91, and further, another first magnetic component 914_2 is disposed on the lower part (substrate side) of the first optical connector 91, and the other first magnetic component 914_2 is mounted on a second substrate 2_2. The first magnetic components 914_1 and 914_2 are connected to a second magnetic component 924 surrounding the second optical connector 92 by applying magnetic force. In this arrangement example, an example using substrate 2 and the second substrate 2_2 has been described, but substrate 2 can be used alone for the arrangement.

[0333] In this way, various effects that are exactly the same as those described in the first to eighth embodiments can be exhibited, and in addition, the number of optical connectors to be connected can be reduced, and further space savings can be achieved in the installation of the optical module.

[0334] Furthermore, in the connection of multiple optical fibers to an optical module, the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber to be connected can be led out at an angle rather than orthogonal to the connection end face of the optical module. This is used when the optical path is formed at an angle relative to the direction orthogonal to the connection end face in the PIC of the optical module and when reflected back light is suppressed. In this case, as described in this embodiment, there is a second effect of being suitable for gathering multiple fiber groups into an optical connector and having excellent installation properties.

[0335] Furthermore, in the above embodiments including this embodiment, an example of leading a group of multiple optical fibers from an optical module has been described. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to the case of leading two or more groups of multiple optical fibers or multiple optical waveguides from an optical module.

[0336] <Tenth Embodiment>

[0337] Reference FIGS. 24A-25B The mounting structure of the optical module according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0338] <Configuration of the mounting structure for the optical module>

[0339] FIG. 24A This is a perspective view of the mounting structure 100 of the optical module according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention. The mounting structure can be any combination of the first to ninth embodiments. The difference between this embodiment and the above embodiments is that it also includes a plate assembly 107, which is arranged to contact both the first magnetic component 1014 and the second magnetic component 1024 after the first optical connector 101 and the second optical connector 102 are connected.

[0340] like FIG. 24B As shown, a plate assembly 107 is provided surrounding the periphery of each of a pair of connected first magnetic components 1014 and second magnetic components 1024. The plate assembly 107 is made of a soft magnetic material, and for example, of SUS 430, nickel, etc. Although FIG. 24B An example of a plate assembly 107 using a connection structure around a pair of first magnetic components 1014 and second magnetic components 1024 (first optical connector 101 and second optical connector 102) is shown, but a plate assembly 107 using a connection structure around a plurality of first and second optical connectors 101 and 102 can be used.

[0341] With such a structure, in addition to exhibiting effects similar to those described in the first to ninth embodiments, it can prevent the magnetic lines of force acting between the first magnetic component 1014 and the second magnetic component 1024 from leaking into the external space, and can strengthen the restriction of the magnetic circuit at the connection portion of the first optical connector 101 and the second optical connector 102.

[0342] Therefore, the magnetic force in the same volume can be increased, which can further save space for the installation of optical modules.

[0343] Note that board assembly 107 does not need to be in contact with the entire periphery and can be a board assembly in contact with at least one surface. In addition, preventing magnetic lines of force from leaking to the outside reduces the influence of magnetic force on the outside, and also exhibits secondary effects such as preventing magnets from sticking to peripheral components and eliminating adverse effects on other electronic components caused by the magnetic field.

[0344] The shape of the plate assembly in this embodiment is arbitrary, and the periphery of the magnetic assembly can be a machined structure or a structure in contact with at least one surface, as needed.

[0345] FIG. 25A A mounting structure 100_1 for an optical module according to a modified embodiment of this invention is shown. In this embodiment, a shared board assembly 107 is used to collectively surround a connection structure of a plurality of first optical connectors 101 and a plurality of second optical connectors 102. Additionally, as... FIG. 25B As shown, a board assembly 107 can be used with a connection structure surrounding a pair of first optical connectors 101 and second optical connectors 102.

[0346] Additionally, a stop structure 108 is provided, which is coupled to the second magnetic component 1024 in the longitudinal direction of the second optical connector 102 and restricts movement in the direction facing the connector connection end.

[0347] In this manner, in addition to exhibiting effects similar to those described above, even when stress is applied to the second optical connector 102 in the direction of disconnection along the longitudinal direction of the optical fiber, the mechanical interference of the stop structure 108 can prevent disconnection and maintain a stable optical connection. Note that a configuration in which a magnetic structure is also used in the stop structure 108 to apply magnetic repulsion to the second magnetic component 1024 can be employed.

[0348] In embodiments of the present invention, examples of the arrangement of the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component have been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As an arrangement of the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component, the following can be used: FIGS. 5A-5K and FIGS. 7A-7F The arrangement shown is arbitrary, except for... FIGS. 5A-5K and FIGS. 7A-7FIn addition to those shown, any combination that can be analogized may be used. The first magnetic component only needs to be arranged around or on a portion of the periphery (upper, lower, side, etc.) of the first optical connector, the second magnetic component only needs to be arranged around or on a portion of the periphery (upper, lower, side, etc.) of the second optical connector, and the first and second magnetic components only need to be arranged to be connected to each other by applying a magnetic force therebetween.

[0349] As described above, various embodiments have been described with reference to the first to tenth embodiments. However, the present invention can be applied to any combination of the connection target, connection structure, connection end face structure, connector structure, magnetic component structure, arrangement and connection form, cover structure, materials and arrangement of various components, etc., described in the first to tenth embodiments.

[0350] In embodiments of the present invention, examples of the structure, dimensions, materials, etc., of each component have been described in the configuration and manufacturing methods of the optical module; however, the present invention is not limited thereto. Any optical module can be used, as long as it exhibits the required functionality and effect.

[0351] Industrial applicability

[0352] This invention relates to a compact optical connection assembly and optical connection structure, which can be applied to optical communication devices and systems, etc.

[0353] List of reference numerals

[0354] 2 substrate

[0355] 10. Connection structure of optical module

[0356] 11 First Optical Connector

[0357] 12 Second optical connector

[0358] 13 First optical waveguide assembly

[0359] 13_2 Second Optical Waveguide Component

[0360] 14 Optical Modules

[0361] 114 First Magnetic Component

[0362] 124 Second magnetic component.

Claims

1. An optical module mounting structure, comprising: Optical module; The first optical waveguide assembly is optically connected to the optical module; A first optical connector, which houses the first optical waveguide assembly; Second optical connector; The second optical waveguide assembly is housed within the second optical connector; A first magnetic component is disposed on the first optical connector; A second magnetic component is disposed on the second optical connector; as well as Cover assembly, arranged on the optical module; in At least one of the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component comprises a hard magnetic material, and The first magnetic component extends through the top of the first optical waveguide component to the optical module and is coupled to or integrated with the cover component.

2. The mounting structure of the optical module according to claim 1, wherein... The first magnetic component includes a magnetic metal component made of a soft magnetic material.

3. The mounting structure of the optical module according to claim 1, wherein... The first magnetic component includes a magnetic metal component made of soft magnetic material and a permanent magnet component made of hard magnetic material.

4. The mounting structure of the optical module according to claim 1, wherein... The first magnetic component includes a permanent magnet component made of a hard magnetic material.

5. The mounting structure of the optical module according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein... The optical module includes multiple optical modules, and The cover assembly is arranged around the plurality of optical modules.

6. The mounting structure of the optical module according to any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising a heat dissipation structure disposed in at least one of the cover assembly and the first magnetic assembly.

7. The mounting structure of the optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein... The first optical connector includes a plurality of first optical connectors, and The first magnetic component is coupled to the plurality of first optical connectors.

8. The mounting structure of the optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: A first substrate, on which the optical module is mounted; as well as The second substrate, on which the first magnetic component is mounted.

9. The mounting structure of the optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein... The optical module includes multiple optical modules. The first optical waveguide assembly includes a plurality of first optical waveguide assemblies, and The first optical connector accommodates two or more of the plurality of first optical waveguide components and is optically connected to two or more of the plurality of optical modules.

10. The mounting structure of the optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a plate assembly made of a soft magnetic material, the plate assembly being arranged to contact the first magnetic component and the second magnetic component.

11. The mounting structure of the optical module according to claim 10, wherein... The plate assembly includes a stop structure that restricts the movement of the second optical connector in the longitudinal direction facing the connection end after connection.

12. An optical mounting plate, comprising: The mounting structure of the optical module according to any one of claims 1 to 4; A substrate on which the optical module is mounted; as well as An integrated circuit is mounted on the substrate.

Images